Don Valley
The brief of this project was to create an open plan living; incorporating kitchen which was initially in the centre of the house with the dining and second family room.
Open Plan Living with Entertainer’s Heart
This renovation was all about transformation. The original layout featured a closed-in kitchen positioned at the centre of the home, limiting both natural light and flow. Our client’s brief was clear: create an expansive, open-plan space that connects the kitchen, dining, and second family living area—while celebrating the stunning Australian landscape visible from their property. The result is a breathtaking interior that brings the outside in and redefines everyday living.
From the earliest design sessions, the vision was to maintain a neutral and sophisticated palette, allowing the natural surroundings to shine as the focal point of the home. This guiding principle helped us craft a space that feels warm, grounded, and effortlessly elegant.
As passionate entertainers, the clients needed a kitchen that could keep up with their lifestyle. At the heart of the design is a large kitchen island with an asymmetrical overhang, acting as the central gathering point for both casual and formal occasions. Finished in Polytec Strata Grey, the island defines the space and contrasts beautifully with the Polytec Classic White cabinetry used throughout the rest of the kitchen.
Every cabinet was custom-designed in collaboration with the homeowners, based on how they envisioned using their kitchen. Practicality was key. Behind the kitchen lies a walk-in pantry complete with everything a host could need—a Vintec wine fridge, built-in wine storage, and a second butler’s sink, ideal for concealing dishes during dinner parties.
The connection to nature is further emphasised by the stunning stone-clad fireplace in the living area—an architectural feature that reinforces the theme of bringing the outdoors in. Throughout the space, Blackbutt timber accents add warmth and texture, from the overhead kitchen joinery to subtle design features.
Oversized stacker doors open seamlessly to the outdoor area, blurring the line between inside and out. Whether it’s a summer lunch with friends or a quiet evening with family, this home was designed to enhance the beauty of everyday living.
This project is a true example of how thoughtful design, purposeful layout, and material quality can come together to create a home that is both contemporary and enduring—a space that will remain beautiful and functional for years to come. Built with care, crafted for life—by MODE Group.